Home Improvement: Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling Ideas - Vessel Sinks

AFFORDABLE BATHROOM DECORATING

2009-03-29T16:43:00.000-07:00

AFFORDABLE BATHROOM DECORATING

One of the most used rooms in a house is the bathroom. To make a huge impact in decorating your home, the bathroom should be included in your plans. For those that don't have a whole lot, and wish to make just an ordinary bathroom look amazing you have to focus on the most important element of the bathroom. Simply put within the bathroom the sink is the most viewed item, and therefore sets the tone for the entire bathroom. Even if the wallpaper is coming off the walls a great sink will overpower it and make it look amazing. In reverse a beautifully decorated bathroom can look horrible if it has a bad looking sink.

Our choice in decorating bathrooms affordability is using vessel sinks. Vessel sinks are the new wave of class and elegance coming to hit our homes, and they are not as expensive as you might think. They offer color and shape that affordability reshape the bathroom with a new and amazing results. They are used in most high end restaurants and shopping areas for their bathrooms for precisely this reason. Results.

Vessel sinks stand out like nothing on the market for decorating your bathroom. We have found you can get one of the best deals on the Internet with Top10Vesselsinks.com and if you type in "Incredible" at check out you receive an additional 20% off your order. One of the really nice thing about this company is their website is formatted for designers. They use a color pallet tool you can use to pick the exact sink you want. If you desire red, click on Red, Blue, Black, Silver, Gold, Square, and others. It really helps designers and do it your self buyers to quickly filter through to exactly what they are looking for. I clipped the section for Top10Vesselsinks.com for your convenience:

Vessel sinks continue to grow by popular trend and demand. Vessel Sinks are bathroom designers dream come true. Vessel sinks are the detail everyone sees. A touch that set the tone for the bathroom. In bathroom design, the vessel sinks are the hottest trend to hit home improvement, bathroom makeovers, bathroom remodeling and design. Vessel Sinks create a decorative mood that set the tone for the entire bathroom. Installing a vessel sink can instantly change the look from traditional to contemporary. At Top 10 Vessel Sinks we wish to help you decide on the right sink for your beautiful home. Please find below our color swatch of sinks organized by color and shape or scroll down and look at our entire collection.

Pick on the colors you think might look great and view the wonderful sinks:


.	Red	Black	Green	Purple	Yellow
						.
	Blue	White	Silver	Gold	Brown

	Clear	Oval	Round	Square	Art On Sinks

Bathtub Faucet Repair Tips and Techniques

2009-01-06T22:57:00.000-08:00

Did you know that you can fix a leaking shower faucet and save hundreds of gallons of water in one year? Most people just think of a dripping faucet as an annoyance and don't realize how much precious water is being wasted one drop at a time. The good news is that almost anyone with a few basic tools can learn how to fix most dripping faucets.

Let's start with the basics. Faucets have one primary purpose, to allow the water in your pipes to be used in a controlled manner. This means that they have to open to allow water out of the pipes and close to keep water in the pipes. Not rocket science, right? The closing part is what we want to concentrate on here.

There Are Two Basic Faucet Designs

Faucets drip when they fail to completely trap the water in the pipes. Most faucets use one of two basic methods to stop the water flow. Some, primarily older designs, use rubber or neoprene washers which tighten against a "seat" and block the flow of water. Drips from these faucets are addressed by replacing the washers and/or seats. We'll talk about how to do that in a minute. Most other faucet designs involve some sort of cartridge. Some people call these "washerless" faucets. Repairing newer style water faucets like these usually involves replacing the cartridge(s).

Washers And Seats

Older faucet designs often use washers to block the water and keep it in the pipes. Tightening the handle compresses the washer against a "seat" and seals the opening, thus stopping the water flow. If you need to do a bathtub faucet repair on a three< class="kLink" style="text-decoration: underline ! important; position: static;">dripping faucet that has washers, the basic repair process is very similar whether you need to know how to repair a shower faucet,repair a leaking tub faucet or fix a dripping sink faucet. There is, however, one important difference.

Bathtub Faucet Repair

The one critical thing to remember when fixing a leaky bathtub faucet is that you will have to turn the water off to the entire house before removing any parts other than the outer trim pieces. If you're not sure which pieces are trim, just turn the water off first just in case. Once you have turned off the main water to the house you can begin taking things apart. There are lots of different brands and designs of faucets out there and they all come apart a little differently, so you will have to sort of feel your way through.

Removing The Trim

The first step is to remove the handles. This is usually done by removing a cap to expose the handle screw and then removing the screw. Next, remove the handle. This may require a little finesse, as the handles sometimes get stuck in place. One trick is to place the handles of a pair of channel lock pliers behind the valve handle, one on each side, and tap evenly on the handle to nudge it loose. If this doesn't work you can buy a special tool to remove handles but these tools are sometimes hard to find and usually a little patience is all you need to do the trick.

After he handles are off, there is usually some sort of sleeve over the stem itself. This typically has to come off too. Once again, there are many different configurations. One popular design uses threaded plastic tubes to connect the trim sleeve with the valve. Other types have the sleeve threaded directly onto the valve. You will have to figure this step out before you can proceed. If you can determine what brand valve you have there is a good chance of finding instructions on-line.

Now For The Root Of The Problem

Ok, so you have removed both the handles and any remaining trim sleeve from the valve. Now you are ready to get to the root of the problem, your valve> stem. The washer is almost always at the other end of the valve stem from the handle. Usually the stem is threaded into the valve body and you will just need to unscrew it to remove it. Here's a tip. Stick the handle back on for a second and open the valve half way. This relieves pressure on the stem and makes it easier to unscrew.

Now you just need to make sure you are loosening the correct nut. Lots of valves have a packing nut around the stem. It is usually a little smaller and just in front of the actual connection with the valve body. The packing nut's purpose is to squeeze some special packing material around the stem to prevent water from leaking around the stem when the valve is in use. Loosening the packing nut won't help you, you need to get your wrench on the actual connection to the valve body. By the way, a deep socket is often the only tool that will work to remove the valve stem.

Removing The Valve Stem

The easiest way to make sure you have the correct nut is to see if there is a gap opening up between the nut and the valve body as you loosen the nut. The valve stem itself will also usually turn when you have the right one. If you have loosened the packing nut by mistake, don't worry, you will adjust it before you are finished anyway. Go ahead and remove both stems and keep up with which one is which, it matters on many valves.

After you have the stems out you should be able to find the washer on the "inside" end. If it is nicked, torn or brittle it is likely the cause of your drip. Even if it looks brand new, go ahead and replace it. You've already come this far. You can get replacement washers at almost any hardware store. Sometimes you may want to replace the whole stem, especially if the handle end is stripped out. It's best to just take the stem with you to the store and see if you can match it up. Most Do It Yourself stores have replacement stems for many popular brands. If your valve has a center diverter valve to switch the water from the tub spout to the shower head the same process applies. Many times it is easier to replace the diverter stem than to repair it. This really depends on the design of the stem.

How Are Your Seats?

One more thing to check is the seats. These are the part of the valve body that the washer tightens up against to stop the water flow. If you can get your finger inside the valve, feel of the seats and see if they feel rough. If so, it would be best to replace them if you can get them out. The inside of the seats, which is where the water flows through when the valve is open, usually have either a hex or square recess. Special seat wrenches are used to remove the seats. You can usually get these wrenches at the same place you get the other parts and they're not expensive. You just stick the wrench through the seat and unscrew it. The replacement seats screw back in the same way, just put a little pipe dope on the threads before you install it.

Put It All Back Together

Once you've figured out what needs to be replaced and have done that, you just need to put everything back together. If your valve has packing nuts don't put the trim back on until you have turned the water back on. Once the water is on, go ahead and stick the handle on for a second and open the valve. Make sure no water is leaking around the stem. If it is leaking, with the handle opened half way, snug down the packing nut until the leak stops. Easy does it. If you get it too tight the handle will be hard to turn. Now finish installing the trim pieces and you are done.

Repairing Newer Style Water Faucets

If you have a newer, "washerless" type valve the repair process is similar, but usually easier. Many of these type valves use a self contained cartridge. If the valve starts to drip, just replace the cartridge and you're done. You still need to turn the water off and remove the handles and trim. The cartridge is usually held in place by a retaining nut on the valve body or, in the case of most Moen valves, by a retaining clip. Simply remove the cartridge and put another one in it's place. If your hot and cold are backwards when you finish, turn the water back off, pull the cartridge back out, turn it over 180 degrees and re- install it.

Delta Style Valves

One other common design that is considered "washerless" was made famous by Delta and copied by several other makers. It uses little "cup" seals that fit over springs recessed in the back of the valve body. The springs press these "seals" against the cartridge and regulate the flow through little tapered openings in the cartridge. If you have one of these and it's dripping, changing these springs and seals will usually correct it. Here's a tip. Once you have the cartridge out of the way, insert a phillips screwdriver into the seal and pop both the seal and spring out. Stick the new ones on the end of the screwdriver to help guide them into place. This is especially helpful if you don't have long slender fingers.

Delta, and a few imitators, also have a faucet design that uses a ball instead of a cartridge. This is not as common in tub or shower valves but there are plenty of them out there. The springs and seals are the same but there are lots more o-rings and parts to deal with. The good news is that these parts are readily available. While it's a little more complicated than learning how to repair a Moen kitchen faucet, which is a piece of cake, it is still easier than working with most washer type faucets.

These Techniques Work In The Kitchen Too

Armed with the knowledge you've gained in this article you now not only know how to repair a shower faucet and to repair a leaking tub faucet, but you can apply these skills to many other faucets as well. After fixing a leaky bathtub faucet, stopping a dripping outside hose faucet will be a breeze. The techniques that you will use to complete a "washerless" bathtub faucet repair can be used when repairing newer style water faucets of all kinds. Whether you have an old dripping tub faucet or a newer kitchen faucet that just won't quite shut off you can now fix it. So put these new skills to use, roll up your sleeves and stop that drip!

Visit Top10VesselSinks.com and DanzeFaucetsKitchenBathroom.com

Get Creative With Shower Enclosures

2009-01-06T22:41:00.000-08:00

It is time to liven up your bathroom's decor. The white acrylic bathtub, white sinks, and cream vanity are certainly nice but the bathroom just looks boring. If you plan to resell your home in the near future, you need to make it look nice! The two rooms that people look the most closely at when they are searching for a new home are the kitchen and the bathrooms. Therefore, you need to make sure you keep these rooms updated. One quick tip: do not go too extreme with your creative designs. You want everything to look modern but do not go too crazy. Refrain from decorating the bathroom with your school colors or deciding that everything needs to be gold. Try to make it less outrageous and more creative. Here are some great ideas for everything from vanities to shower enclosures!

If you want to find a high quality bathroom vanity, you need to start doing some research. Most people have vanities custom-made for their home, but there are several beautiful pre-made options. Decide if you need a single vanity or a double vanity first. There are great options for both. You can opt for a vanity that sits on the floor or one that is wall mounted. You also have many choices when it comes to the counter top, sink styles, and faucets. Would you like the warm, elegant look of marble and granite or would you prefer a finished wood for the counter? Sinks can either be mounted into the vanity itself or sit on top of the counter, which is also known as a vessel sink. Check out all the options, you will love the outcome!

When it comes to shower stalls, you have more options that you even thought possible! Try to find one that has beautiful glass sliding doors

. Glass really helps open up a smaller room and looks beautiful no matter what type of decor you have already. Another option is to live out on the edge, literally. Tile your shower enclosure but have the top line scalloped and chipped. Then match that pattern along the top of the shower door with a ragged wave cut. It will look contemporary and cool!

Good luck coming up with creative ideas for your bathroom! And don't forget to check out Top10VesselSinks.com

A Review of Different Bathroom Sinks

2009-01-06T22:31:00.000-08:00

Your bathroom’s design is an essential part of your home. When planning your design, keep in mind your needs, budget, and home décor. Bathroom sinks are a crucial consideration; check them out in shapes and styles from unique to traditional in great finishes to complete your bathroom’s design. Also, make sure you pick out the right type of faucet to work with the sink you choose (or, vice versa). Here are a few popular bathroom sink styles to help you decide.

Console sinks sit atop two or four legs and free up space underneath the sink. Many of these sinks are Victorian in design and will coordinate with claw foot tubs in the bathroom. Other styles of console sinks can be purely modern in form. Console sinks don’t require a bathroom counter top, but assure you have the space and available plumbing to fit one into your bathroom.

Wall hung sinks are commonplace in homes. These pieces fit onto the bathroom wall, and leave the space under the sink open and free. You’ll find great wall hung bathroom sinks in sizes, styles, and finishes to suit most anyone’s tastes.

Pedestal sinks resemble console sinks, except they’re supported by one leg or column. Typically, the ceramic pedestal sink has a Victorian look; however, most all manufacturers offer traditional, modern, and contemporary options. In a larger bathroom, like a master bath or large hall bath, place two matching pedestal sinks next to each other for a designer look.

Undermount and self-rimming sinks are intended to fit into a countertop. The undermount sink is mounted under the counter. This style makes wiping the counter top easier. Self-rimming sinks offer a more stylish look. Check out self-rimming and undermount modeled sinks in various styles and an array of finishes to suit your personality and your bathroom’s design theme.

The vessel sink is almost like an inside out version of the undermount and self-rimming sink. It sits atop the counter like a bowl. The vessel sink requires a vessel filler faucet, which can easily be found in a range of styles from traditional to ultra-modern. Check out incredible vessel sinks in stunning colors and finishes, from porcelain to stainless steel to natural stone, and add a unique taste to your home. Visit Top10VesselSinks.com for fantastic Discount Prices.

Remember to evaluate your bathroom’s plumbing capabilities and its available space when shopping for a new bathroom sink. You can rest assured that bathroom sinks come in sizes and shapes that can accommodate almost any need. Leading home plumbing companies like Kohler, American Standard, Danze, Moen, Elkay, and Grohe are a few of many who will satisfy your bathroom and kitchen sink and faucet needs. Our favorite is Danze and you can visit for fantastic prices and variety at DanzeFaucetsKitchenBathroom.com

How to Avoid Buying a Faucet With High Lead Content

2008-05-06T17:40:00.000-07:00

Did you know that kitchen and bathroom faucets are mostly made of brass (which contains LEAD) and that they are regulated commodities in the USA? If you purchase a faucet that is NOT certified you could potentially be exposing yourself and anyone else that drinks or cooks with water from that faucet to long term health problems created by ingestion of lead which is known to cause health issues and contribute to birth defects. A PROPERLY certifed faucet goes through an exhaustive array of mechanical, chemical and finish testing in order to be considered SAFE for use by the general public. Think seriously about this... How many childrens toys were recalled due to lead paint issues recently? My kids don't lick their toys or walls that may have had high lead content used in the manufacturing processes, but it is far more likely they will ingest lead from drinking water, or using water from the faucet for cooking if the faucet is not properly certified. That is why it is very important to make sure you buy a properly certified faucet

Steps

The first step in determining if your faucet is certified is to inspect the packaging of the product you are considering purchasing. You should look for any of the following markings on the exterior of the products packaging: IAPMO, UPC, NSF, CUPC, TUV. There are other approved regulatory agencies, but these are the most common.
If you already have a faucet installed in your kitchen, bathroom or bar area and you want to see if it is a certified product then you can check the back of the faucets spout and you should see one of the same marking as referenced above: IAPMO, UPC, NSF, CUPC, TUV. Again, these are the most common certification markings, those are the most common. NOTE: Lack of a marking does not automatically mean the product is not certified, therefore you would need to contact the manufacturer of the item and ask them if the product is truly certified.
Another quick way to see if you have a good quality product (not necessarily certified)is to look at the aerator assembly on the spout of the faucet. The aerator is the part of the faucet where the water actually comes out of the spout. Usually the aerator has a screen in it to filter out any particles before final use. The aerator should have the letters ASTM.118.1.1 on the aerator assembly to show that it is compliant with water conservation requirements.

Tips

You should only buy CERTIFIED kitchen and bathroom faucets.
You can look up a faucet certification on the following website: http://pld.iapmo.org/
If you have doubts about the certification of your product ask the manufacturer.
Do NOT buy uncertified faucets, it's not against the law to, the final decision rests with you.
Write to your legislature about banning un-certified products that are sold in the USA.
Ask the seller if the product is certified BEFORE you commit to buy, if you are buying online.
Remember, you get what you pay for!
There's a reason the decorative faucet online is less than the brand name style and design.

Warnings

Buying a(n) uncertified faucet can lead to long term health issues due to ingestion of lead.
Children are more susceptible to issues realating to ingestion of lead.
Lead can cause birth defects.
Purchasing faucets that are not certified can result in the denial of an insurance claim if the product causing the damage is found to be defective and un-certified.
Most of the "imported faucets" sold on the internet are not certified and are potentially dangerous from a health and safety perspective.

Sources and Citations

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Avoid Buying a Faucet With High Lead Content. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

The Classiness of Vessel Sinks

2008-04-28T08:35:00.000-07:00

by Matt Myers

Vessel sinks are still a popular trend, even though they have been on the market
for quite some time. People have just responded to the look of a functional
bowl sitting where the sink should be. These sinks came into popularity
a few years ago and have showed no signs of slowing. People began to
take notice of these very classy sinks in sushi bars and other upscale
restaurants and there after the trend moved into homes. Where will they
go from here?

Humble Beginnings Vessel sinks are not a completely new idea. If you take
a close look at them, and at the Industrial Design Movement they are
part of, they are just a modern era spin on old wash basins. In the
old days, the basin just sat there and one would use the same water
to wash and rinse, as with a bathtub, except when you finished you had
to dump the water out.

What is new about these sinks is that they are plumbed with a drain, so you
don't have to empty these. The faucets are not connected to the basin,
but instead come out above and extend over. These basins are usually
fairly deep because the water will tend to splash out from the height
of the faucet.

Style Points The big advantage is that these bowls can be made of any
material. We have seen copper, limestone, bronze, glass, pewter, wood,
ceramic, metals, and various stones. What this allows a person to do
is determine her own style, her own material, and her own price.

If you really want to have something that is eye-catching and unique, there
are many materials that have yet to be discovered, and certainly there
are discovered materials that signify class at the highest level because
vessel sinks are made from the best materials.

Don't overlook the fact that because they can be made of any material that
you have to go with only the very best. If you are on a budget of whatever
size, there are plenty of options that mesh well with the penny-wise
homeowner.

Good Uses Because these types of sinks are high-end, they are usually
not found in kids' rooms, laundry rooms, etc. Many have used vessel
sinks as guest soap, in that they go in the guest bathrooms for only
guests to use.

But why leaves these classy little items only for guests? If you get one
or many of these you want to be able to enjoy them yourself. Treat yourself
for your birthday, Mother's Day, the Holidays or for no special reason
at all beyond just wanting one.

For More Info Goto: www.Top10VesselSinks.com

HOW TO DESIGN A BATHROOM

2008-04-28T08:29:00.000-07:00

Add some sass with a sink - By LORI DARVAS • The Indianapolis Star

Looking for a little punch in the powder room? Want something cool in
your kitchen? Consider a vessel sink, a dramatic alternative that offers
an artsy option for homeowners who want something different. Advertisement
Advertisement "Vessel sink" is a term for a basin that sits on top of
the counter or is slightly recessed within the supporting cabinetry.
Such sinks are curious juxtapositions of old and new fashions: Their
shape and setting evoke memories of the old-fashioned pitcher and basin,
but their distinct style adds a contemporary flair.

"It's sort of an updated step back in time," says Diana Chastain, a McCordsville,
Ind., interior designer with Diana Chastain Interiors. Vessel sinks
have been on the market for about 10 years, says Hal Weinstein, owner
of Atlanta-based Xylem, which manufactures several sink styles. The
name is a catchall term for any sink that sits above the countertop,
but the styles have evolved from a standard round basin to a large selection
of shapes and styles. Think squares and rectangles. Think deep basins
that stand 4 to 6 inches above the counters, or shallow bowls that are
hardly deeper than a dinner plate. Think variety.

"It gives a new dynamic to a design that you can do in a bathroom," Weinstein
says. "When you have sinks that can sit above the counter, it makes
for an interesting approach to design." Leslie Bolinger, a Kokomo, Ind.,
has vessel sinks in all of her bathrooms. Bolinger worked with Nancy
Barbee, owner of Cabinetry Ideas in Indianapolis, to select a sink that's
right for each room. For instance, the master bathroom features a milky
opaque glass vessel, while her teenage sons' bathrooms sport utilitarian
stainless steel. "They're gorgeous. They're very beautiful. Whatever
style you're using, you can find sinks that work well with it," Bolinger
says.

Vessel sinks do have a higher price tag, Weinstein says. A vitreous china vessel
sink will run between $220 and $460 at Xylem, while a vitreous china
undermounted sink will range from $75 to $145. Weinstein points out
that vessel sinks must be finished both inside and out, while their
undermounted and drop-in counterparts can remain unfinished on the outside,
which is hidden from view. Other vessel sinks may cost more because
their designs are more intricate or unusual, Weinstein says. In the
Indianapolis area, the popularity of vessel sinks has picked up in the
past five years, says Meredith Baxter, a showroom consultant with Lee
Supply in Carmel, Ind. People are drawn to the multi-dimensional effect,
and find that vessel sinks are akin to adding art to the bathroom or
powder room.

Vessel sinks are available in many different materials. Certainly, ceramic
and glass remain top sellers, Baxter says. But daring customers might
opt for solid rock, granite or marble. The natural materials may feature
a rugged, raw look on the outside. "They can range from looking very
cabin-style rustic to very sleek and contemporary," Baxter says. Still,
vessel sinks remain a niche market in metropolitan Indianapolis. Home
Depot reports interest around the country, but Indianapolis-area store
managers aren't getting many requests yet for vessel sinks, says Jen
King, senior manager for public relations for Home Depot's north division.
"I think we may see more interest down the road as customers learn more
about this style and find options suitable to their decor," King says.

For More Information Visit the Website at: www.Top10VesselSinks.com

Stone Age Bathroom Sinks

2008-04-02T22:40:00.000-07:00

Stone is taking on a sink-ing feeling in today's high-style bathrooms. Learn how designers are using this age-old material in dramatic new ways.

By Jenny Nash

Humans have been using stone since the beginning of time — today, we're motivated as much by beauty as by function. Modern bathrooms have stone floors, walls and counters, and now stone has earned itself a new place in the bathroom: the sink.

Stone sinks run the gamut from rustic (carved from whole pieces of stone with rough outside edges) to sleekly modern (an inclined slab of marble for gravity to guide water down the drain). To decide whether a stone sink is for you and your bathroom needs, here's what you need to know:

SINKS ROCK
Most, if not all, stone bathroom sinks are carved from a single piece of rock. The type of stone varies: granite, marble, travertine, limestone and onyx, to name a few. The new, rock-hard fixtures run the color spectrum from white to black, with a rainbow in between.

Onyx, a new entry in the stone sink arena, has the most color variation, including vivid reds and bright greens. Marble, limestone and travertine offerings tend toward muted earth tones, though travertine can also be a rich, deep rust color or softer golds and greens. Granite is often black, but also comes in paler colors.

The composition of some of these materials makes them particularly compatible for bathroom applications. Granite, an igneous stone, is well known for its strength — it's why we use it for kitchen countertops. Limestone is a sedimentary rock, which makes it a little more porous than the others, and often has fossils visible in its surface. Travertine, often used in flooring and building, is created from limestone near hot and cold springs.

STYLES OF SUBSTANCE
Vessel sinks are bathroom design's darlings these days, and stone is a perfect foil for this form. John Lang, a kitchen and bath designer with Lang's Traditions of Bucks County, in Newtown, Penn., installed a red travertine vessel sink in a small powder room. The client wanted to keep the existing terra cotta floor, so Lang worked off that style and added river-stone wainscoting and a black granite vanity top.

A stone sink would also fit in a more formal bathroom. Bates and Bates' La Concha, a carved marble shell-shaped basin on a matching pedestal, would fit in any traditional bath.

If you have a yen for Zen style, choose a square stone sink for an Asian tone, such as a vessel sink in honey onyx.

And natural stone is foolproof if you're trying to bring the outdoors inside with your design. To go completely au naturale, buy a boulder with a sink carved out of it, such as vessel sinks, which leave the boulder as is on the outside and carve a shiny sink inside.

Stone sinks are also moving into a different plane. At one time, a bowl was necessary to mix hot and cold water from two separate taps. Since the advent of the mixer faucet a bowl isn't really necessary — how often do you fill up your sink with water? Designers have taken note, and — voila — the flat sink, such as vessel sinks in marble, is a new trend.

A flat sink that would fit in with more rustic styling as vessel sinks of Amarillo Triana marble, a warm gold with brown veins that would be the focal point of any bathroom.

The sky's the limit with this deep-earth material, which also lends itself to artisans' designs. If you'd like a long shallow trough sink with two wall faucets instead of the tired old double-sink set-up, pick your stone and your dimensions and have the sink of your dreams made.

KEEPING UP APPEARANCES
Whatever stone sink fits your style, all stone surfaces used in the home should be sealed to protect them from stains and make cleaning easier. Depending on the stone, seal as directed with sealers such as wax or silicone. More porous stones require more frequent sealing. Granite and marble are the densest, or least porous, of the stones used to make sinks, so you can seal them less often.

Keep up routine maintenance, and your stone sink will last — maybe even as long as it took nature to make it.

Site to Check Out: http://www.Top10VesselSinks.com

Choosing a Bathroom Vessel Sink

2008-04-02T22:37:00.000-07:00

Bathroom design evolution has opened up a whole new world of sink choices.

By: Shawn G.

In the past you could almost be certain that upon entering any bathroom you would be greeted by a plain white porcelain or cast-iron sink. Those days are long gone. Today, you have choice, not only of materials but also of color, texture and shape. The bathroom sink has become just as much of a piece of art as the elegant works featured at the Louvre in Paris.

Vessel sinks can easily be considered the most elegant style of bathroom sink available today, but the honest truth is that vessel sinks are really just a new spin on an old world invention, the wash basin. Wash basins were a common item in the homes of 18th and 19th century society; they were essentially a common porcelain bowl placed atop a counter or table and filled with warm soapy water. The core idea has not changed, they are still bowl like objects that are mounted on a bathroom countertop but they now feature integrated drains to allow water to empty. This definitely beats having to pick up the basin and dump it out when it gets full!

It is proven that the vanity area is the focal point of the bathroom, so when constructing a new bathroom or renovating an old one the vanity, countertop, sink, mirror and related accessories require the most attention. If you are a discerning home owner who is looking to implement something trendy yet timeless in your new bathroom, then a vessel sink is surely for you. It is however important to mention the obvious disadvantage of vessel sinks, which is that they really are not ideal for family bathrooms where small children will need to use them. This is simply because of the extra height involved with a countertop deck mounted sink; a small child will likely not be able to reach up and into the bowl. However, if your bathroom is not shared with any small children and you want a truly unique, dare I say “art like”, centerpiece of a sink, then a vessel sink is still the right choice for you. Like any bathroom fixture there are a few decisions you need to make in order to narrow your choices.

The first thing to consider is the plumbing, but more specifically the faucet. Vessel sinks are mounted on top of the countertop deck, therefore a regular 4 or 5” high faucet simply will not do. Vessel sink faucets essentially come in two styles, wall mounted and deck mounted. The deck mounted faucets required for vessel sinks are quite tall, and usually feature some type of goose neck design which allows the faucet to reach above the edge of the vessel giving enough room for you to wash your hands. Deck mounted vessel faucets are the easiest to install because they simply require a hole in your countertop and can use the existing under counter plumbing. Wall mounted faucets however, require some preparation in advance. If you are building a new home or have completely demolished your old bathroom, a wall mounted faucet is definitely feasible. These faucets require hot and cold water lines to be run through your wall and above the level of the vessel sink basin, the faucet is then attached to the wall and reaches out towards the middle of the basin.

Now that you have sorted out the plumbing logistics, you can continue to the fun part; selecting your new vessel sink! Vessel sinks come in many shapes, sizes, colors and materials. The most popular materials are glass, stone, copper, ceramic and most recently, wood. Each of these materials has its own unique advantages and disadvantages.

Glass is by far the most popular vessel sink material. Glass vessel sinks are plentiful and can be found at many big box hardware stores as well as plenty of online vendors. Glass vessel sinks are available in thousands of different color combinations and many even feature printed images between the layers of glass. Glass vessel sinks are easy to clean and maintain which is a big advantage; however glass sinks are also fairly easy to break. Improper installation, over tightening of the drain, quick temperature changes or just a straight out impact could cause a glass vessel to crack or shatter. It is important to note that if you do select a glass vessel sink, make sure it is made of tempered glass because non tempered glass could definitely do some damage to you or your counter top if it ever shattered. The popularity of glass vessel sinks is directly related to their price. Handmade, blown custom glass sinks can surely cost between $1500 and $5000, but the more common variety that most retail stores and online vendors sell can be attained for a reasonable amount of between $200 and $500. This affordable price makes glass vessel sinks an option to just about everyone. I find that glass is not a warm or natural looking material, and the commonality of them is certainly not a benefit if you are trying to design a unique bathroom space.

Stone is likely tied with copper for the second most popular vessel sink material. There are many types of stone including granite, marble, travertine, onyx, soapstone and many others with granite, marble and travertine being the most popular. Stone vessel sinks are truly unique because each sink is hand carved from a single piece of natural stone, therefore there will never be two identical stone sinks. Natural materials such as stone emanate warmth and relaxation, almost giving a Zen like spa feeling to your bathroom. Stone sinks come in a variety of shapes with the most popular and most practical being the stone bowl. Many stone sinks are also available with a natural unfinished outer surface that resembles the natural chiseled surface of a stone cliff. Stone sinks provide a natural beauty to your bathroom, and will immediately catch the attention of anyone who enters. There are of course disadvantages to stone sinks, mainly that stone is a porous material which means it can absorb and hold water. Stone sinks have to be regularly cleaned to keep their finish looking beautiful. Granite and marble have to be sealed with a stone sealer solution at least once a year. Stone sinks, being natural, hand crafted works of art are definitely more expensive than their glass counterparts but certainly not unattainable. Stone sinks can typically be purchased for between $500 and $1000. Stone sinks are not something usually stocked by local hardware stores or design centers, although they may be able to order them. There are a handful of reputable online vendors who carry a good selection of natural stone sinks.

Copper is yet another popular choice of sink material. Most copper sinks are “hand hammered” which means they are fabricated by and old world tradition which involves an artisan hammering a single sheet of copper into a desired shape. Copper sinks are usually created by small fabrication shops in Mexico and India where copper is most plentiful. The wonderfully unique feature of copper sinks is that they have a “living weathered finish”. Copper is a material that is constantly reacting to its environment. Factors such as moisture, temperature and water solids content all play a role in what a copper sink will eventually end up looking like. This phenomenon is typically known as the patina. Some will appreciate the natural evolving patina of copper where others want to keep their copper sink looking bright and glossy, like it was when they originally purchased it. You can slow or prevent the change of coppers evolving patina finish by using a copper wax solution or sealant. In addition, copper sinks require regular cleaning with a gentle soap and water solution and it is recommended that they are dried after every use. Leaving water standing in a copper sink may eventually lead to water spots or an uneven finish. The next factor to consider when looking at a copper sink is the general construction. The thickness of the copper sink is important, be sure to look for a 14-18 gauge construction (with the lower the gauge being the thicker material). A thin shelled construction will result in a tin like sound when the water from the faucet makes impact. In addition, copper vessel sinks are available in single walled or double walled configuration. The double walled construction lends to a beefier, more rigid sink, but they are also more expensive then their single walled counterparts. Copper vessel sinks can usually be purchased for between $400 and $800.

Another common material used in vessel sink design is ceramic or porcelain. These materials are very much an extension of a plain white in-counter bathroom sink, providing little or no natural uniqueness. However, there are still many people who don’t have the desire to stray from the original design of a white ceramic sink. The clear advantage of a ceramic or porcelain vessel sink is that they are extremely easy to clean and are quite durable, but once again they are very plain if not boring looking. Porcelain and ceramic vessel sinks are very affordable and can be purchased for as little as $180 from local retailers and various sources online.

Wood is the last material to be discussed and is perhaps the most natural looking of all sink construction materials. Wood is a fairly recent trend in the bathroom fixture design industry; and it truly is striking. Tubs and vessel wash basins made of natural teak, mahogany, phoebe and birch are making their way into the ultra luxurious bathrooms of people looking for a spa like atmosphere inside of their home. Before you jump the gun and ask how wood can stay beautiful after regular exposure to water it is important to note that the wood that goes into making a wood sink is kiln dried before production to ensure little or no water content. In addition, wood sinks are specially treated with a natural varnish sealer much like what was used in the times of the European conquest on hulls of the great sailing ships. Wood vessel sinks, like stone, are naturally porous and require routine cleaning and maintenance. Wood sinks also require special pampering, not only are they recommended to be dried thoroughly after each use but also need to be polished with a hard-wax wood oil a few times a year to keep its natural brilliance. If you are willing to put forth the effort into caring for a wood sink, its natural warmth and relaxing beauty will surely be an equal tradeoff. Wood sinks are typically a higher end item, ranging in cost from $500 to $1000 for most basins but can cost up to five times more for custom designed pieces.

As you can see your choices are almost limitless, but it is important to weigh your options, consider all of the available vessel sink materials and determine how much maintenance work, if any, you are willing to put forth in keeping your vessel sink looking its finest. If price point is your driving factor, glass or ceramic vessel sinks are likely your best choice; however if you are willing to spend a little more on a stone, copper or wood bathroom vessel it will return the favor by providing years of warmth and serenity that can only be found in natural earth materials.

A glass vessel sink, mounted 1/3 of the way into the counter top. Shown with a wall mounted faucet.

A marble stone vessel sink, shown with a brass wall mounted faucet.

A hand hammered, double walled copper vessel sink.

A beautiful dark wood vessel sink shown with a standard faucet.

Spa Bathroom Design

2008-04-02T22:33:00.000-07:00

How to create the ultimate spa retreat in your own home

By: Shawn G.

The origin of the word “spa” is said to come from the town of Spa located in Belgium which has been known since the times of Julius Caesar for its deep soaking baths and relaxing atmosphere. In fact, the modern spa can be considered a direct descendant of the act of bathing in hot springs by as far back as the Babylonians.

Visiting a spa is very much a sensory experience, the feeling of tranquility and relaxation that one gets when entering a spa is directly related to the synergy of the atmosphere. Flooring, wall décor, furniture and fixtures made of natural materials are most prominent in high end spas. Wood and natural stone including granite, marble and soapstone are perhaps the most used materials in spa design. These materials along with proper lighting and layout all contribute to the Zen like atmosphere of your favorite spa. So, what is to stop you from recreating this in your own home? Nothing!

In creating a bathroom spa the sky truly is the limit, however most homeowners should be able to create a relaxing spa like retreat without breaking the bank. There are many important design elements to consider when planning for your bathroom spa renovation.

Choose a Warm Color Scheme
This is by far going to have the greatest impact on the overall look and feel of your spa. A color palette of calming, warm neutral colors create the most ideal atmosphere. Shades of chocolate, tan and mocha will enhance the furniture and fixtures in your bathroom while providing depth to the space. Anyone who regularly visits a spa will immediately notice the extensive use of this color palette.

Keep an Open Concept and Let Nature In
Ensure that your bathroom is an open, airy space. The use of large windows and frosted glass will allow you to bring in a lot of natural light, which can only have a positive effect on the space. If you are building a new home or plan on completely demolishing your old bathroom this will obviously be easier to do. Another change you can make to bring nature in is to use a frosted glass door in order to let the light from the connecting room or hallway to enter the bathroom.

Use Natural Materials
As previously mentioned, wood and stone are the most prominent materials used in modern spa construction. Vanity’s made of wood should feature deep and rich tones, while the countertop should be a welcoming contrast of lighter tan or very pale green. If your budget allows, a countertop made of granite, marble or Corian is most effective in adding to the natural look of the space.

One of the most recent trends in luxury bathroom design is the use of vessel sinks. The vanity is the focal point of a bathroom so it only makes sense to put forth the extra effort into making it really stand out. Vessel sinks are reminiscent of the old countertop wash basins used in the 18th and 19th century. These sinks are available in many different types of natural materials including marble, granite, travertine, copper and wood.

If your bathroom is large enough, consider adding a small bench seat with a dark leather cushion, or if leather is not in the budget, a modern dark wicker seat with appropriately colored pillows. The seating area should be large enough for you and your significant other and will act not only as a decorative element but a functional one as well.

Create a Welcoming Floor
The floor of your spa bathroom will occupy a significant portion of your field of view, so be sure to spend the extra time picking flooring that works with the rest of your motif. The two most popular materials to be used in spa bathroom floor construction are ceramic tile and laminate wood flooring. Ceramic tile is available in a wide variety of sizes, textures and colors, just be sure to stick to a neutral color that accents your wall color. If you have dark walls, choose a lighter colored floor or vice versa. Laminate wood flooring, although less exotic looking that its natural hardwood counterpart is better for a bathroom because natural hardwood tends to expand and contract more with temperature and humidity. It addition, it will as absorb more water than comparable manufactured flooring such as laminate. If your budget allows for it, you may also consider natural stone flooring such as marble or travertine. Whatever you do, please do not use vinyl flooring, it may be more cost effective to do so but it definitely will be reflected in the end result.

Get Rid of the Clutter
Bathrooms are infamous for being makeshift closets. Clutter not only takes away from the peaceful look of your bathroom but can also induce anxiety. There is nothing worse than walking into a beautiful new bathroom and seeing hair products, ten varieties of soap and various other trinkets spread throughout. There is a wide variety of furniture, baskets, containers and bathroom organizers on the market today which will provide ample storage for bathroom and hygiene related items.

Upgrade Your Lighting
Lighting has a big effect on the atmosphere of your bathroom. Be sure to spend a little extra money on quality fixtures and avoid those globe shaped vanity light bars. I have always loved the natural look of halogen lighting, and have found that many spas also take advantage of the benefits of halogen bulbs. Halogen lights produce a wider color spectrum, much like the sun, allowing for the true color of natural materials to really glow. Whatever lighting you choose, be sure to install a dimmer switch so you can adjust the lighting level to reflect your mood. The use of candles is also common in many spas and should be no different in your bathroom, just make sure they are used safely and are out of the way of anything flammable.

Consider Upgrading Your Tub or Shower
If your budget allows for it, consider a luxury jetted tub or high end shower. Tubs are available in many different configurations, whether you want something freestanding and modern, or a tub that is flush mounted into an enclosure there is certainly something out there for you. If you are designing a more rustic bathroom consider a claw foot tub, it will surely become an important centerpiece of the room. In the rare case that there really is no limit on your budget, you should consider a natural stone, copper or wood tub. If you go with natural tub be sure to pair it with a vessel sink

If you are more a shower type of person, never fear, there are plenty of choices available for you as well. Some of the most recent advances in shower fixtures include integrated massage jets, rain shower heads and even steam nozzles. If you have the space, consider a two person shower with dual heads and control valves, it will become an intimate place where you can thoroughly enjoy your new spa bathroom. If you do end up installing a new shower stall, be sure to continue the use of natural materials by using stone wall tiles within. To keep the open feeling of the room, consider using a clear glass shower enclosure with a swinging glass shower door.

Add Quality Accents
To finish the overall look of the space, bring in quality decorative accents. Luxury towels and linens can add an extra feeling of welcoming, so be sure to display them proudly. Candles, rocks, bamboo and clear glass vases can also lend themselves to giving your bathroom a serene and peaceful feeling. It really is the little things that can make or break a quality spa oriented bathroom design.

It might be in your best interest to visit your favorite spa and take note of what you like and dislike about it, and try to integrate your favorite elements into your own bathroom. If you take your time, do a little research and consider the suggestions and guidelines above you can create a relaxing stress relieving environment in your own home that will provide you with enjoyment for years to come.

This bathroom features plenty of wood, proper storage, a large soaker tub and two person shower. Important elements of spa bathroom design.

The use of a dark wood vanity and dark stone countertop provide excellent contrast with the light taupe walls.

A white stone vessel sink placed on a mosaic tile countertop complimented with the right accents gives a feeling of relaxation.

The entrance to a popular Ontario spa, note the extensive use of natural wood on the walls, and marble tiles on the floor.

Free-Standing Basins Stand Out

2008-04-02T22:23:00.000-07:00

Using a blend of time-honored and new techniques, two talented artists are creating handmade basins that are as beautiful as they are functional.

By Rosemary Sadez Friedmann

Perhaps the epitome of luxury is a glass bathroom sink. A work of art for the bath, these bowls are handmade, each unique and beautiful in its own way.

Though the process of heating and manipulating glass is an ancient craft, new twists on this old practice are being created by very talented artists, namely Michael Murphy and Steve Weinstock, through a company called Alchemy Glass & Light. What makes them so special? One reason is that they are made of a combination of random reactions of minerals and glass manipulated by hand and heat to create distinctly different bowls. Michael Murphy created a type of glass in which Murphy and Weinstock specialize; it's called Cienega (see-en-eh-guh), the glass which is made by fusing a mix of different minerals between layers of glass.

The organic patterns and colors that are sealed in the glass are determined partially by the way the minerals are applied. They also are affected by the chemical changes that occur during the high temperature fusing, so color and even shape cannot be predetermined. Hence, no two are alike.

Then there are the Monochrome Glass sinks. These are single layer glass sinks available in gold or platinum. Special? You bet.

And there are the Misto sinks, sandblasted to a heavy frost on the outside so that it glows beautifully when lit from underneath.

Glacier Glass sinks, however, are created in an old-fashioned way. The outer surface is subjected to the old stained glass art of glue-chipping, which 'peels' flakes of glass from the surface and leaves an organic textured pattern that sometimes looks like veiny leaves pressed into the glass.

In addition to the various methods of creating the bowls, there are also unique edge treatments. There's polished edge, which is smooth and flat. The eroded edge is a pattern of undulating bumps and valleys smoothed to a worn finish. And there is the ground and polished edge, a flat polished surface but different in that the edge of the sink is ground down first to a wide surface, then polished clear. This makes the edge appear as a window with a unique view of the inside of the sink.

Why would you use one of these bowls? The primary reason, of course, is their special and artistic beauty. They could be used in the master bath for daily use and admiration by the homeowners or in a powder room where guests will enjoy their exquisiteness. They can be mounted above the counter (best for showing it off) or they can be mounded under the counter. They can be mounted onto a pedestal of cast bronze or sit atop a counter made of chiseled stone or cast-glass. It can have a spotlight showing it off from above or, if the glass bowl sits on a glass countertop, it can be lit from below.

The creative possibilities are endless. Check out http://www.top10vesselsinks.com

Rosemary Sadez Friedmann is a professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers. She is president of Rosemary Sadez Friedmann, Inc. in Naples, Fla.

How to Install a Vessel Sink

2008-04-02T22:21:00.000-07:00

By Jack Healy

As the popularity of vessel sinks has grown, so has the number of beautifully hand-crafted products that practically demand exhibition. By sitting entirely above-counter, vessel sinks can be displayed for their beauty as well as their functionality. The great thing about vessel sinks is they are not reserved for use in any one type of bathroom. Modern designs, conservative spaces, rustic décor and everything in between can all be enhanced by a vessel sink. Thus, the aesthetic this type of sink accommodates is rather extensive.

A vessel can be installed sitting on the countertop (“above counter mounting) or it can be sunk down up to a third or even half of its height. Some vessels are actually a hybrid of a drop-in style sink and a vessel – i.e. they are designed to partially sit above the countertop.

For an above counter installation, you will need a hole that is large enough to accommodate the drain assembly. This is the plumbing hardware that allows the sink to drain the water. If the bottom of your vessel is flat, then the installation is straightforward. The only thing we would recommend is a bead of silicone under the sink and around the edge to prevent water on the countertop from working its way underneath the vessel. If the vessel has a rounded shape – as with most glass vessel sinks – you have two options. You can either use a vessel mounting ring (sometimes these are provided with the sink) or you will need to provide a mounting hole directly in the countertop.

Mounting rings for vessel sinks can be easily found at most home centers or online. They usually come in several finishes that you can match to your faucet and drain. A vessel mounting ring elevates the sink from the countertop and helps with the stability and seal of the sink.

Due to design considerations, a mounting ring is not always desirable. If you want to mount the vessel directly into the countertop, you will need a hole that is at least 3” in diameter with a beveled edge in the countertop material to accommodate the shape of the bowl. You may want the hole to be more in the range of 5” – 6” if the vessel is larger for stability. Use clear silicone to provide cushion and stability when mounting the sink. If you want to lower the level of the sink you can simply enlarge the hole. The larger the hole, the more stability you will achieve in the installation. To experiment with the size of the hole, use a piece of cardboard. Start with a smaller size – say 3” – and work your way up. This will give you a visual as to how far down the vessel will be relative to the counter throughout the size range that you choose. Be sure to keep the height of the faucet you have chosen in mind when making these decisions.

Whichever mounting method you use, you will want to install the drain in the vessel before installing the sink to the counter surface. Drains for vessel sinks come in two basic configurations. Does your vessel have an overflow? If so, you will need a standard drain. However, most vessel sinks do not have an overflow and will need a “vessel style drain”. Vessel drains come in many different styles and finishes. These drains do not have a “pop up” assembly. Some are referred to as “grid drains” (referring to the “grid configuration” on the top of the drain). Grid drains were designed to let the water flow out of the basin but catch larger objects from heading down the drain.

A special caution for glass vessel sinks. If you are installing a glass vessel, be sure to provide a cushion between the glass and the counter. This can simply be a bead of silicone or you may want to line the hole in your counter with a small piece of rubber material. In addition, be sure that you don’t over tighten the drain assembly. Hand tighten only and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. The breakage we see with glass vessels is usually associated with an improper installation of the drain.

Home Improvement Process

2008-04-02T22:17:00.000-07:00

Posted by HRG Blog

Home improvements can be trying on your and your family. Here are a few simple steps to ease some of the tension.

Getting Started
1. Gather a scrapbook - It should consist of notes, photos, and articles that you have collected that reflect your need and the style you are looking for.
2. Get together with your family and ask them for their input and wish lists.
3. Come up with a budget you can live with.
4. Draw a rough sketch of your floor plan and take measurements (or, if building, get floor plan from architect or builder).
5. If you would like, print and fill out the Kitchen Planning Guide which can be found . http://www.classickitchendesigns.com/Kitchens/planning_guide.htm

Now you will need to find a showroom where they can help bring your needs and wants to life.

The first time you visit a showroom:
1. The well trained associates will be able to answer any questions you may have.
2. Review and/or assist you in establishing a budget.
3. Discuss your scrapbook of ideas - include all the important elements within your budget
4. Discuss your floor plan and go over some design ideas.
5. Discuss your plans for utilizing the room you will be remodeling.
Once you have have decided on your contractor design company:
1. They come to your home and take measurements.
2. Review and make suggestions in your home that will best suite your space and your personal needs

The second time you visit the showroom:
1. Your design team will have created a design, and drafted perspectives, elevations, and a floor plan.
2. When you have decided that everything is perfect, you will provided you with a price. The next meeting is for you to discuss the design and any potential modifications you would like to make.

The Installation Process:
1. If necessary, your design team will make arrangements with your builder, architect, and/or designer to coordinate the installation.
2. If you prefer, they will remove your existing cabinetry and appliances.
3. To ensure a quality installation, your design team will meet the installer at your home to discuss the details of your plan and installation.

For more helpful tips, and to find a Kitchen Renovation expert, call or visit Classic Kitchen Designs at 905.279.6194 or http://www.classickitchendesigns.com. Classic Kitchen Designs has been providing afforable kitchens for homeowners since 1979.

AHHH, THE BATH

2008-04-02T22:00:00.000-07:00

Posted by HRG Blog

Not simply a utilitarian space, your bathroom is your private place to relax and unfetter your senses. Appealing to that sensation of the spa and introducing it into our everyday lives, is becoming a reality when building our dream homes or renovating to allow the home bath experience to be one of our creature delights.

Water. The quiet simplicity of water, we love it. We go to places where the changing forms of it inspire us. From the rain shower, to the steam bath, the turbulent waters of the whirlpool and the crashing surf of the sea. Take all of these and transform them into the home spa. Luxuriate in the warmth, tantalize our senses and relieve our stresses. Capturing the feeling and the art of water in motion will achieve all of this.

The variety of inspiring luxurious products designed to compliment each other will astound. Remember the day when having a bidet was representative of a beautiful bath. And should you have a shower separate from the bathtub, well that was everything. Not so today. The options, styles and variety is, while enticing can be very confusing. We will review some of the items and upgrades to introduce into your bath with some explanation as to some of the differences. Let your senses soar. Use your imagination and create the bath of your dreams.

Let’s start with that bidet. Let us start from the early beginnings of the luxurious bath. Think of a bidet as a miniature bath, at a comfortable sitting height, that provides partial bathing and soft sprays to soothe our human conditions. The style compliments the toilet that is installed next to it. Sleek, contemporary to traditional and elegant. Convenient, clean and simple using a bidet for both men and women offer hygienic fresh water sprays that provide comforts beyond tissue.

The toilet, we think of it from its functional point of view and while that is important the style also represents the continuation of the overall look that the room will have. From sleek low style, traditional raised back with decorative bases to a “hat box” fashion that will have them guessing where the toilet really is. Flushing mechanisms are refined to provide low water consumption, with effective waste elimination. You can even add power to the flush with discrete motors that eliminate the need for any visible tank.

No toilet would be complete without the seat. Not just any seat will do. Add a slow closing seat that not only doesn’t slam, it provides additional safety and hygiene not to mention those late night ventures into the dark that often end with splash down and shock. For those who want the ultimate in potty comforts the heated French Curve toilet seat by Kohler is truly a luxury you will wonder how you lived without. With even heating across the surface of the seat that is maintained at a comfortable 25 degrees above normal room temperature, your sit will be most enjoyable.

Experience the whirlpool. No longer just the water jets, but air and water combine to provide variable speed effervescence and the ultimate in relaxation. Tubs come in every configuration you can imagine and work to fit your space. Whether a retrofit into an alcove or a tub centered in the room under the stars visible from the skylight above, every element of escape can be created in the privacy of your home.

Water is a natural way to rejuvenate your body, mind and soul. Bubblemassage, Aromatherapy, Chromatherapy are all part of a multisensory hydrotherapy treatments that have until now been obtainable only at the most exclusive spas. You can have them all in your home. Creating a space that permits the indulgence of a spa within your walls to use at your leisure and once you have it, there is no further cost.

The whirpool experience is one that creates a sense of well being, for a private escape and a time for true relaxation. With floating remote controls there is no need to change positions to alter the function desired. It is at your finger tips. Extra deep tubs envelop your whole body, caressing you with warmth and effervescing water from back jets and neck jets. Adjusting to every contour of your body to relax and invigorate. Experience gentle massage combined with the colours of calm. Chromatherapy concepts are introduced to seduce your body and mind into relaxation as full spectrum colour gently washes over you. Coloured lights follow a sequence or you can choose a single colour that provides you with the most in leisure.

Showers are no longer just a place to clean our bodies from the daily toils. They can be body massages, rain forests and steam baths. From beautiful tiled walls with clear glass enclosures to open showers that resemble roman baths and benches to enjoy an environment that delights the senses.
Showers cascade waterfalls, gently sprinkle rains and pound with body massage jets like the surf itself. Inspirational, relaxing and truly one of the most powerful moments of pleasure. Custom showers with adjustable jets, rain shower heads, waterfalls and steam baths are all available to create that spa like experience in your own home. Home hydro-massaging systems have integrated heating systems to maintain a constant water temperature while a recirculating pump keeps the water coming until every inch of your body is relaxed.

The basin is yet another area that presents opportunity to create style and function. Vessels that sit on beautiful glass bases. Hand painted works of art set into marble atop spectacularly carved cabinetry, all to create an environment of luxury. Kohler offers “Artists’ Editions” in basins and pedestals. They are a tribute to the time honoured traditions of fine raised enamel on bone china with platinum or gold bands as that of dinnerware. Truly a beautiful choice for any bathroom.

Faucets that range from sleek single levers that rise above vessel bowls to wide spread faucets with exquisite lever handles enhance the bath experience. Polished or brushed finishes compliment the look. For those with more exotic tastes, gold and platinum replace chrome and brass.

Vessel sinks continue to grow by popular trend and demand. They are bathroom designers dream come true. They are the detail everyone sees. A touch that set the tone for the bathroom. It is strange, you can have an empty bathroom and a beautiful vessel sing that makes the entire room stand out with elegance. Vice versa having a beautiful room and an ugly sink downs the entire bathroom experience. Vessel Sinks just light up a bathroom with their designer touch. Check out the latest at http://www.top10vesselsinks.com

To complete the overall bath experience, we must not forget to look at the base of it all. In floor heating systems take away any hint of cold. It warms the room and enhances the touch. No cold feet here. Towel warmers provide the final element of sophistication.

To complete the look, bath accessories from waste baskets, toothbrush holders and soap dispensers are additions that coordinate and give a refined look to any bath.

For the men in our lives, the bathroom holds a place of mystique. It is a reading room, a library and sanctuary in one. While technology is prevalent in our lives, it is not exempt from the bathroom either. Telephones and radios have long been in the bathroom, so today to add the Ipod toilet tissue dispenser complete with docking station is not such an unusual thing to see. Televisions perched on extendable arms allow for nothing to be missed whether news, the stock market or sports.

Create the bath of your dreams. Use your imagination and leave nothing to chance. You will be amazed at the products available to tantalize and inspire. Ahhhh to the Bath.

Catherine Pulcine is Founder & President of CPI Interiors Inc., Ottawa’s leading Residential Interior Design firm. She can be reached at 613-599-5564 x 22 or by email to catherine@cpiinteriors.ca Their web site is www.cpiinteriors.ca

Painting Your Home

2008-04-02T21:59:00.002-07:00

Posted by HRG Blog

Kitchens
The kitchen is a room you will tend to spend a lot of time in, especially if you are the main chef in your household. Make sure you are comfortable with your chosen colour scheme, as you will probably spend a significant amount of time surrounded by it. Bright, invigorating colour schemes can boost energy levels when you have a lot of cooking and cleaning to get through.
As kitchen walls tend to be dominated by cabinetry, benches and the floor, treat these elements as the starting point for your colour scheme.

The appearance of colours in the kitchen will depend on the properties and textures of each of the surfaces. Glossy surfaces, such as Melteca cabinetry, will reflect more light and look different than low-sheen painted walls, so it is important to be careful when trying to match colours in different materials. Sometimes it is better to select a tone lighter or darker, rather than trying to create an exact colour match.

Remember no matter what room you are decorating, artificial lighting can be used very successfully to complement your colour scheme and it is worth reviewing your lighting plan prior to painting.

Living Rooms
Today’s living rooms are often open spaces that link through to dining and kitchen areas. Knowing where to start and finish the colour scheme between each part of an open plan space can be very difficult. There are two techniques that you can use:

Paint a feature wall in an area between the two adjoining rooms/spaces to create a natural colour break.

Use a progression of colours, then paint a unifying colour throughout the spaces and accent with the other progressional colours.

Living rooms are the ideal place to create focal points or feature walls. Traditionally fireplaces act as the focal point of most living rooms. If you don’t have a fireplace, select a focal point for your room and decorate around that. The focal point may be a feature wall, lounge suite or something similar.

As living rooms are usually subjected to less wear and tear than family rooms, you can choose light and dark colours if desired.

Bedrooms
When selecting colours for bedrooms, it is important to choose colours that are conducive to sleeping. You are also likely to spend more time looking at the ceiling than you would in other rooms.

As a general rule, you should avoid using very bright colours here and save them for other parts of your home. Most light and pastel shades are ideal for bedrooms. Blue is a popular colour choice for bedrooms because of its soothing qualities. However, if you have trouble getting up in the morning, you may wish to add an invigorating accent to get you out of bed.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are one of the smallest rooms in the house and are generally cluttered with towel rails, basins and showers/baths. While this can make them a decorator’s nightmare, it also means you can afford to be a little more courageous with colour. If your original colour choice doesn’t work, you can always repaint a small bathroom quickly.

Chris Paulsen cpaulsen@homerenovationguide.com

Hiring A Contractor

2008-04-02T21:59:00.001-07:00

Posted by HRG Blog

Whether building a new home or renovating an old one, choose your contractor carefully. Start by writing your project down, including a floor-plan sketch. Ask friends, family and neighbours about good and bad contractors. Select several contractors and arrange to meet with them. During the meeting, ask each of them:

* How long have they been in business

* What experience have they with projects such as yours

* Their registration numbers for trade associations, the Better Business Bureau, Workers’ Compensation and private liability insurance

Reputable contractors will gladly answer these questions. Avoid those who balk.

Have the contractor supply at least three references. Ask these former clients about their experiences and, if possible, visit their projects for a first-hand look. Ask your local Better Business Bureau if there have been complaints and how the contractor handled them. Stay away from websites that use a user review ranking system or bidding systems, they can’t guarantee review legitmacy and no contractor can bid on a job without seeing your home.

A major project may require professionally drawn plans. Instead of hiring an expensive architect, pay one prospective contractor to draw them. Then you’ll own the plans outright and can show them to other bidders. Welcome suggestions. An experienced contractor may have good ideas you never thought of.

Each estimate should state prices for labour, materials (including brand and model names where applicable), and all other expenses. It should also describe the warranty. Don’t necessarily choose the lowest bid. Ensure that yours includes:

* The contractor’s name, address and telephone number, along with registration numbers of the firm’s operating license, memberships in trade associations or the Better Business Bureau and Workers’ Compensation. Also include details of private liability insurance coverage. You could be held liable if insurance doesn’t cover an injured worker. If subcontractors are involved, the contract should list similar information for them.

* A detailed listing of the work to be done and all products to be used. The contract could specify either a set price, to which the contractor is committed regardless of unforeseen complications, or a cost price, which allows the contractor to charge extra for such problems.

* An hourly rate for labour. This is most important in a cost-price contract, but is also necessary in a set-price contract, in case you decide to change the plan after work has begun.

* A schedule for payments. Pay only a nominal deposit before work has begun. Then, arrange for payments as work progresses. Avoid scheduling payments for predetermined calendar dates. Instead, pay as each stage is completed.

Never sign a partial or blank contract. Any later changes should be added in writing and signed by both parties. During the project, deal directly with the contractor rather than the tradespeople. Handle problems as they arise and be reasonable. Be considerate of the contractor’s needs, such as parking space for work vehicles.

Hiring a Plumber

2008-04-02T21:58:00.001-07:00

Posted by HRG Blog

Sooner or later we all need to call a plumber. A plumber is expensive and there’s no way around that. But there are a variety of ways to get the most value for your money. This guide will highlight the most effective ways to save money on plumbing.

Compare Hourly Rates

The first, and often only thing, that consumers zero in on when comparing plumbers is their hourly rate. People figure that they should hire the “reputable firm” with the lowest rate. Sounds simple and direct but it doesn’t always work.

The first concern is with the concept of “reputable.” For most people, if they have heard the name many times over the years, they feel that the firm must have an established reputation. Unfortunately, this is often untrue. In the plumbing field, in particular, several of the most highly promoted companies have the worst track records.

The second problem with the hourly rate is that it is difficult to compare rates because of the many ways plumbers count the hours. Travel time is a factor that should be considered. Plumbers spend a good part of their day driving from job to job. They must be compensated for this time.

The bottom line is that it is very difficult to make objective comparisons between two plumbers’ hourly rates. But there is an even bigger problem with focusing on hourly rates. The issue of quality should be considered.

The best way to select a plumber is on his overall ability to deliver customer satisfaction consistently. Costumer satisfaction takes into account all of these issues and constitutes an accurate indication of value received.

Minimize Need

An entirely different approach to saving money on plumbing is to reduce the need to call them at all. The most common plumbing calls have to do with drains. Many homes have one or two problem drains and several that never need any attention at all.

Grease tends to build up over time. You can counteract this by doing things to reduce the grease buildup. There are several products available designed to reduce grease build up. Experiment with these and you may find you can stay one step ahead of a clogged drain indefinitely. Some people have found success with just pouring boiling sudsy water down the drain periodically to reduce grease buildup.

In most cases, hair can be trapped in some sort of screen or drain cover. Talk to your plumber next time he’s there and ask about suggested ways to prevent the hair from getting in the drain. It’s much easier to gather hair off the screen periodically than it is to deal with a clogged pipe.

Another costly, but preventable, problem is frozen pipes. Make sure that all your pipes are in heated spaces. If any are not, make sure they are well insulated. Each fall, when the weather turns colder, disconnect and drain your garden hoses, turn-off the indoor cut-off valve located near the faucet, and open the outdoor faucet. If there is no cut-off valve, consider installing one. Any water left in pipes exposed to below-zero temperatures will freeze.

Buy Your Own Fixtures

A popular and effective way to save money is to buy your own fixtures. Traditionally, plumbers sell you the toilets, sinks, faucets etc. that they install. Typically they’ll get the items at a discount and charge you full price. In part, this is to make money and in part this is to cover the costs of dealing with purchases, returns, storage etc. In recent years, however, some of the home center stores now charge you prices that are even lower than the contractor prices that plumbers pay their suppliers. One result is that plumbers are shopping more and more at the same stores you are. There are many instances where you will do better buying your own fixtures, providing you have the time to invest in shopping around.

While this approach can save you big bucks, there are three caveats to keep in mind. First, many fixtures that appear to be great buys are poorly made or are missing adapters, installing kits or other components that normally come with similar products. Shop carefully.

Second, if you supply the fixture and the plumber installs it and something goes wrong, there is likely to be some confusion as to whose responsibility it is. One way to get around this is to check with the plumber up front about what brands or lines he recommends and then buy those brands.

Checking with the plumber up front also gets you around the third problem. Every product or line of products has its own installation quirks. Choosing a fixture that is familiar to your plumber assures that you will get the full advantage of his expertise and experience. If instead, you choose something he’s never worked with, expect that you’ll be paying for some on-the-job learning mistakes.

cpaulsen@homerenovationguide.com

W Network and HGTV Casting Call

2008-04-02T21:56:00.001-07:00

April 2 2008

Posted by Rebecca Zamon

By now, you can tell how much we at HRG love watching home renovation shows, be it on TV or online. So when a casting call notice for a couple of home-focused TV shows crossed my in-box today, it was hard to resist putting it up here. And so I didn’t. For all those interested in televising their renovation in all of its glory, for the amusement of family, friends and the general public, look no further than the posting below. Good luck!

Casting for Save Us From Our House on the W Network & The Reno Show on HGTV

For Save Us From Our House:

We’re looking for couples & families of all sorts living in the Greater Toronto Area who are struggling to get along with each other and their space. Families with conflicts arising from, or made worse by aspects of the physical space they share will be considered.

Selected recipients will receive family sessions with our Relationship Counselor, and a full renovation of a problem area in their home by our Contractor and Designer.

Please Note:
-Homeowners need to have a solid reno/design budget of at least $5000
-Your situation must have a strong story involving family relationships strains caused or intensified by the state of your living space
-Renovations are approximately 15 days, 10 days for the renovation and 5 for the design
- We are currently NOT doing Kitchens and bathrooms

For The Reno Show:

Do you cringe every time you walk into a certain space in your home? Do you feel as though you just don’t know what to do with it? Bedrooms, living rooms,
dens. HGTV is interested in transforming your space! AT NO COST
Let our contracting and design team help you. Applicants must be outgoing, exuberant and have a great sense of humour. Must live in the TORONTO area. RIGHT NOW WE ARE DOING MINOR RENOVATIONS ONLY!
Applicants must own their home. We are currently not doing kitchens, bathrooms, yards or any unfinished space like a basement, or any children’s rooms.

Tell us about you and your housemates, whether they be family, spouse, roommate, companion, and why you all want to be a part of the show.

How to Apply

For Save Us From Our House or The Reno Show

Please provide us with:
1)Your contact information (phone, cell and e-mail)
2)Your story, including the names and ages of all your family members, and a description of your home
3)A family photograph, and a few of your home (especially the problem areas)

DEADLINE: FRIDAY APRIL 4th 2008
Rate: For SAVE US FROM OUR HOUSE There is a minimum requirement of $5000.
Total renovations provided by design team are valued between $20,000 and $25,000 depending on project size. FOR THE RENO SHOW, THERE IS NO PAYMENT BUT YOU WILL RECEIVE A ROOM MAKEOVER FROM 2 WELL SOUGHT-AFTER DESIGNERS.
Those that we are interested in we will arrange to come to your home for a 30-minute interview. We will also view the room that you want to be renovated.

Please send applications to: Larissa Mair and Lisa Campbell
SAVE US FROM OUR HOUSE: saveusfromourhouse@gmail.com
THE RENO SHOW: designpeople07@gmail.com

10 Home Improvement Tips to Improve Life Quality

2008-04-02T21:40:00.000-07:00

10 Home Improvement Tips

There are certain factors to consider when remodeling your home. Here are the 10 Home Improvement Tips to improve the quality of your life.

1. Plan your Budget. Get accurate home renovation estimation before you get started

2. Have a plan or Layout. Make a list of everything you would love to upgrade/change. Then, prioritize it. If you can remember your first impressions of your place, Consider whether this upgrade will improve the value of your home or not.

3. Look for pictures / magazines that will give you ideas and example of different Home Styles. This will give you more excitement and energy to remodel your home.

4. Decide if you want to take your time to do it yourself and your own way or hire a General Contractor to get the job done quickly. It is very much fulfilling to do it yourself because it will boost up your character and talent and give you a much more fulfilling life.

Kitchen Remodeling. Clear off the kitchen counters. Lose the table, chairs and table can consume up to 50 % space of your kitchen. Update and replace whatever appliances you can microwave, refrigerator, dishwasher and replace or refinish old kitchen cabinets. This will also depend on your budget.

Bathroom Remodeling. Depending on your budget, you can remodel your bathroom by replacing the tiles or new sink. Replacing tiles might cause you a lot. So why not try to just clean up your bathroom and place new curtains. Clean up your toilet bowl and shower head. Brush up your tiles to prevent mold and mildew.

Living Room Remodeling. Furniture that is too large can make your living room appear cramped and stuffy. Make sure that you get furniture that will fit your space. If you have too many furniture pieces in your living room it can end up looking very crowded.

Choosing the right Curtains. When trying to pick up new curtains or drapes for living room, use bright and airy colors to help your room look like it has more space. A bright and airy color gives your home a comfortable and open look.

Tiles and Flooring. Instead of fully carpeted floor, try to use an Area Rug which will avoid your home looking cramp. Using an Area Rug give your home a nice, airy and open look.

Bed Room Remodeling. Changing out a bed comforter, window treatment and artwork can change the entire appearance of the room. For a fresh new look, start with different fabrics, textures, colors and patterns. White paint for the walls makes the room appear bigger.

Replacing old appliances with new appliances is the same as starting your life all over again with new perspective and inspiration. Key features to remember when remodeling is an adequate floor space. Comfort within your own home is something you deserve after a long day of work.

New York General Contractors - Offering a One-Stop-Shop for Your Renovation Project, Including Interior Design, Materials and Complete Remodeling Services for Your Home and Office in New York City (NYC).

A Bathroom Designers Dream!

2008-04-02T14:42:00.000-07:00

www.Top10VesselSinks.com

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On April 2nd 2008, www.Top10VesselSinks.com announced its internet beginning with tremendous online sales with product offerings doubling every few weeks to provide a continuous stream and variety of vessel sinks to fulfill the needs of customers and bathroom designers.

>-NEW Top10VesselSinks.com offers pre-made vessel sinks and you can purchase custom made vessel sinks from just about any material and design. Many of sinks at Top 10 Vessel Sinks are custom designed and made to order. If you don't see exactly what you want you can custom order it from us. Chances are one of our artisans can create the perfect vessel sink. Vessel sinks can be made from almost any material including: soapstone, copper, granite, marble, onyx, stainless steal, glass, pottery, pewter, wood, stone, travertine, plastic, ceramic, gold, silver, hand painted, and more. At Top 10 Vessel Sinks, we work with over a hundred artisans and smaller studios that go far beyond creating a designer vessel sink. These are true artisan created sinks and are generally made specifically for our clients design & budget requirements.

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>-Vessel sinks continue to grow by popular trend and demand. They are bathroom designers dream come true. They are the detail everyone sees. A touch that set the tone for the bathroom. It is strange, you can have an empty bathroom and a beautiful vessel sing that makes the entire room stand out with elegance. Vice versa having a beautiful room and an ugly sink downs the entire bathroom experience. Vessel Sinks just light up a bathroom with their designer touch.

Top 10 List of Vessel Sinks are:

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Home Improvement: Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling Ideas - Vessel Sinks

AFFORDABLE BATHROOM DECORATING

Bathtub Faucet Repair Tips and Techniques

Get Creative With Shower Enclosures

A Review of Different Bathroom Sinks

How to Avoid Buying a Faucet With High Lead Content

Steps

Tips

Warnings

Sources and Citations

The Classiness of Vessel Sinks

HOW TO DESIGN A BATHROOM

Stone Age Bathroom Sinks

Choosing a Bathroom Vessel Sink

Bathroom design evolution has opened up a whole new world of sink choices.

Spa Bathroom Design

How to create the ultimate spa retreat in your own home

Free-Standing Basins Stand Out

How to Install a Vessel Sink

Home Improvement Process

AHHH, THE BATH

Painting Your Home

Hiring A Contractor

Hiring a Plumber

W Network and HGTV Casting Call

Casting for Save Us From Our House on the W Network & The Reno Show on HGTV

How to Apply

For Save Us From Our House or The Reno Show

10 Home Improvement Tips to Improve Life Quality

A Bathroom Designers Dream!

#5 Copper Vessel Sinks

#6 Ceramic Vessel Sinks